Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The new District 186 superintendent, Terrance Jordan, will get some coaching. “I received coaching from Focused Schools as an assistant superintendent and as a director, and it was very beneficial, and, as we’re transitioning to these new roles, I reached out to provide coaching and support for us, and it’s coming from my fund, the superintendent’s budget. And it’s a cost of $22,500.” Jordan’s top deputy, assistant superintendent Erica Filipiak, will also receive coaching. The school board Monday approved the contract unanimously.

Here’s an early holiday gift for students and teachers: an extra day of winter break. “This year,” said Jordan, “there was no requirement from legislation that students are out on Election Day. And, on the calendar we have now, the first day out for teachers and students was Christmas Eve. We’re going to have kids come to school on Election Day, Nov. 3, and let them get out for winter break on Dec. 23.” So, the last day of class will be Dec. 22. District 186 facilities do not serve as polling places.

Jordan continues to promote the district’s back-to-school event Thursday, July 30, at Scheels Sports Park from 4:30 to 7 p.m. “We have food, we have school supplies, we have backpacks.” He says there were not enough supplies to go around last year, so they’re making up for it this year with 3,000 backpacks. The event features free food and an exhibitors’ fair as well. Volunteers are needed.